Sam Quek

Olympic Gold Medallist, Former Team GB Hockey Defender, European Champion & BBC Sports Broadcaster

Sam Quek’s Biography:

Sam Quek is best known as an Olympic gold-winning Great Britain hockey defender whose fierce competitiveness, exceptional leadership, and unwavering resilience propelled her to the forefront of British sport. With more than 125 international caps and a career that spans global tournaments, media broadcasting, and primetime television, Sam has become one of the UK’s most recognisable and respected sporting figures. Her natural charisma and insightful storytelling make her a standout speaker admired for her authenticity, humour, and determination.

Sam’s rise in elite sport began early. At just 19, she earned her first international cap for Great Britain against Argentina—a moment that marked the start of a remarkable journey. Over the following years, Sam competed in major tournaments including the Commonwealth Games, EuroHockey Championships, and multiple Olympic Games. Her on-field intelligence, bravery in defence, and team-driven mindset established her as a key figure within both the England and Great Britain squads.

Her achievements continued to build as she captained Team England at the 2014 Champions Trophy. A career-defining highlight came in 2015 when she was named Man of the Match in the EuroHockey Championship final, helping England secure a memorable gold medal. The pinnacle of Sam’s sporting success came at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, where she played a crucial role in Great Britain’s historic victory—earning the nation its first-ever women’s hockey Olympic gold.

After retiring from competitive sport, Sam transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting. She became the first permanent female captain on BBC’s iconic sports quiz show A Question of Sport, showcased her presenting talent on Morning Live, and fronted the BBC’s Olympic Breakfast during the Tokyo Games. Her media profile expanded further through co-hosting BBC Radio 5 Live’s legendary football phone-in 606 and presenting the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 opening ceremony. Beyond broadcasting, Sam has become a familiar face on entertainment TV, appearing on I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, The Chase, Pointless Celebrities, Play to the Whistle, Strictly Come Dancing 2024, and representing England at Soccer Aid 2025.

Why Hire Sam Quek?

Sam Quek is hired as a speaker for her ability to blend elite sporting insight with compelling storytelling, humour, and humility. She brings valuable lessons in teamwork, resilience, leadership, and overcoming pressure—drawing from Olympic triumphs, media experiences, and her personal journey. Sam’s energy, relatability, and professionalism make her an inspiring choice for corporate events, leadership sessions, sports conferences, and motivational keynotes.

Sam Quek’s Career Highlights:

Below showcases Sam Quek’s inspirational career throughout the sporting and broadcasting industry:

• 2025 – Represents England in Soccer Aid
• 2024 – Competitor on Strictly Come Dancing
• 2023 – Co-host of Eurovision Song Contest opening ceremony
• 2021 – Presenter on BBC’s Morning Live and Olympic Breakfast
• 2020 – First permanent female captain on BBC’s A Question of Sport
• 2016 – Olympic Gold Medallist, Rio Olympic Games
• 2015 – Man of the Match as England won EuroHockey Championship gold
• 2014 – Captained Team England at the Champions Trophy
• 2008 – Earned first international cap for Great Britain at age 19